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USAF Server Network Compromised with Other OS Removal

May 14, 2010 Written by Jonathan Leack

Sony’s recent removal of the Other OS feature included with non-Slim PlayStation 3 consoles has been unnoticed by many due its lack of popularity. However, for the few that took advantage of the powerful feature, the sudden removal in the latest PS3 firmware update has been a cause for concern. Among those concerned is the United States’ very own Air Force.

The United States Air Force has voiced their frustration with the recent removal of the Other OS feature in PlayStation 3 consoles. Last year, the USAF purchased over 2,300 PS3 consoles to create a server cluster at a budget price. Now that the Other OS feature has been stripped from the PS3s, the USAF is no longer able to host the servers on the Linux-based network. During Ars Technica‘s interview with a representative from the USAF, the representative stated the following:

“We will have to continue to use the systems we already have in hand, this will make it difficult to replace systems that break or fail. The refurbished PS3s also have the problem that when they come back from Sony, they have the firmware and it will not allow Other OS, which seems wrong. We are aware of class-action lawsuits against Sony for taking away this option on systems that use to have it.”

Apparently to counter-balance the issue the USAF has refused to upgrade to the new firmware which removes the Other OS support. Unfortunately, any consoles that experience issues are forced into a scenario where they are rendered useless in the Linux-based environment. Sony has had no comments on the issue, but several class-action lawsuits are in place. Thankfully, the United States Air Force does not plan to sue Sony for what they are experiencing, but that might not last forever.